Leiden-based Meatable charts course for Asia; bags investment from this Asian meat company

Leiden-based Meatable, a Dutch startup specialising in cultivated meat technology, has secured a strategic investment from Betagro Ventures, the venture capital arm of Thailand-based food company Betagro. The funding amount, however, remains undisclosed.

Betagro has become the first Asian meat company to invest in Meatable. The investment reflects “confidence” in Meatable’s cell-based technology, which replicates the qualities of conventional pork and beef. 

The partnership is expected to support Meatable’s growth and entry into the Asian market, where demand for sustainable food solutions is increasing.

Producing meat without harming animals

Meatable is developing a sustainable alternative to traditional livestock farming, which harms the environment and society. Using its patented opti-ox technology, Meatable grows real muscle and fat cells from animal stem cells quickly and efficiently, without needing livestock. 

This process creates cultivated meat, offering a solution to reduce the negative impacts of conventional meat production. Meatable plans to work with the meat industry to scale up production.

Last month, the company was awarded €7.6M through the Innovation Credit programme administered by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO), to enhance productivity and reduce costs as it prepares for commercialisation.

Sustainable growth in Asia

Betagro’s investment in Meatable aims to strengthen the company’s presence in Asia and foster strategic partnerships across the region. The collaboration supports potential co-development projects and aligns with both companies’ commitment to sustainability in the food industry.

Meatable’s opti-ox stem cell technology creates real meat without harming animals, reducing environmental impact. This aligns with Betagro’s goal of expanding sustainable protein options.

Jeff Tripician, CEO of Meatable, says, “We are delighted to welcome Betagro as our first investor from the traditional meat industry. This investment is not just a testament to the potential of our cultivated meat technology, but also a strong indication that established food leaders like Betagro are willing to champion innovation for a sustainable future.”

“With their deep understanding of the Asian market and extensive network, we are confident that this partnership will significantly enhance our ability to bring cultivated meat to tables across Asia.”

Chayadhorn Taepaisitphongse, MD of Betagro Ventures, adds, “Betagro Ventures’ investment into Meatable represents our Group’s commitment to innovation and driving sustainable change across the food industry.”

“We firmly believe in the underlying technology and vision of Meatable, and look forward to partnering with the company to bring cultivated meats to consumers across Southeast Asia.”

Brief about Betagro Ventures

Betagro Ventures, part of Betagro PLC, focuses on building and supporting ventures to improve access to sustainable, high-quality, and affordable food. Its goals include creating new protein sources, improving food quality, and optimising supply chains. 

Betagro Public Company Limited, a Thai food company, operates across the entire food production value chain and exports to over 20 countries. The company prioritises sustainability, aligning its operations with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and ESG principles.